A simple 9-minute movement break before tests may improve Thai students’ verbal comprehension and reduce anxiety-related brain patterns, new research suggests. The study, conducted with children aged 9-12, found that brief in-class high-intensity intervals improved performance on verbal tasks while decreasing neural signals linked to worry over mistakes.
Researchers from a leading university conducted six bodyweight exercises—such as high-knee marching, jumping jacks, air squats, and lunges—for 30 seconds on, 30 seconds off, in a typical classroom setting with no equipment. After the movement, students completed verbal comprehension tests while EEG monitored brain activity. Results showed faster, more accurate responses and lower error-related negativity, a brain marker associated with attentional lapses and anxiety during testing.
For Thailand, where O-NET testing dominates education priorities and physical activity among youths has declined, these findings offer a practical, health-conscious approach to boosting learning outcomes without extending school time.
The Thai context presents both challenge and opportunity. Physical education time has shrunk, and only a minority of Thai youth meet World Health Organization daily activity guidelines. Integrating short, teacher-led movement breaks could align with cultural norms around classroom discipline while delivering cognitive and emotional benefits during high-stakes assessments.
Implementation is straightforward. The nine-minute protocol requires only classroom space and teacher guidance, making it suitable for Thai schools constrained by crowded classrooms and standard uniforms. Movement breaks can be scheduled before important lessons, prior to testing sessions, or during transitions between subjects without major timetable changes.
Safety and accessibility are central. Start with three or four simple exercises and gradually increase duration as students become comfortable. Modest exertion minimizes fatigue and keeps students energized for learning. Training for teachers would focus on safe supervision and modifications for students with physical limitations.
Beyond test performance, movement breaks may support overall well-being. Regular short exercises can reduce stress, promote social interaction, and help students build healthy study habits. For students with attention difficulties, structured movement can help reset focus and improve classroom behavior.
Future research should expand to larger, diverse Thai student populations and examine impacts across different subjects such as mathematics and science. Local studies could tailor the exercise types and delivery to fit Thai classrooms, cultural preferences, and Buddhist mindfulness practices where relevant.
Policy-wise, education authorities could consider adding brief classroom activity modules to existing wellness initiatives, with teacher training and simple evaluation metrics. Pilot programs in Bangkok and other regions could provide local evidence to guide broader adoption.
Data from educational and health institutions in Thailand would help clarify long-term effects and best practices. In the meantime, a nine-minute movement break offers a low-cost, scalable approach to harmonize health and learning in Thai schools, supporting students’ growth inside and outside the classroom.